March 28th, 2019

On March 9th, YOF held the annual 5th Grade Melava Malka, in memory of beloved teacher and colleague, Chava Schneerson, Z”L. Principals, board members, teachers, parents, distinguished guests, and students all attended this exciting and meaningful event.

The program began with a beautiful Havdala ceremony, led by Jeffrey Ashear and his son Morris, class 5-334. A Dvar Torah was then presented by Jonathan Yagan, class 5-336. The fifth graders, accompanied by soloists, then sang two songs: “Shabbat is Going Away” and “La Nair.”

Afterwards, Associate Principal of Torah Studies Mrs. Rivka Zaklikowski and Grace Tbeile, class 5-332, described how Chava Schneerson Z”L was a devoted educator, role model, outstanding colleague, and true friend. Helen Ender, spoke about the importance of the Flatbush Five initiative. Albert Montague, class 5-332, recited a poem he wrote about the Flatbush Five.

The Personal Hero Award, given to an individual chosen from a student's family or community, was presented by Marcus Mezrahi, class 5-316, to his father, Sam Mezrahi, for his commitment to the values of the Torah, Derech Eretz, Midot Tovot and the Flatbush Five.

Principal of General Studies Mr. Robert Berkman, Mrs. Zaklikowski and Assistant Principal of General Studies Mrs. Debra Miller all wished the students continued success in their future studies, and awarded two students from each 5th grade class the Derech Eretz and Midot Tovot Awards.

After the Divrei Preida by Lily Mandler, class 5-330, and Victor Kbariti, class 5-338, the students were led by Eve Franco in a series of Israeli dances. The evening concluded with a beautiful kumzitz led by Sylvia Schwartz.

Thank you to our generous sponsors: Jennifer and Shawn Safdie, Julie and Steven Montague, Ami and Ralph Sasson, Melissa and Isaac Tbeile, Maya and Jack Fatiha and Limor and Ralph Madeb.

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